North Shore Schools

Board of Education

Minutes

February 15, 2007

The meeting was called to order by President Beyer at 7:00 pm in the High School Alumni Room. Present were Trustees Genovesi, Glassman, Murphy, Pombar and Webb. Trustee Vollmer was absent. Also present were Dr. Melnick, Mr. Chlebicki and Ms. Buatsi.

Executive Session

At 7:00 pm, on motion of Trustee Beyer seconded by Trustee Murphy and all in favor, the Board went into Executive Session in the high school faculty room to consider discussions regarding proposed, pending or current litigation, the employment history of a particular person, matters leading to the employment of a particular person, and matters leading to the discipline of a particular person.

At 8:00 pm, on motion of Trustee Glassman and seconded by Trustee Webb, and all in favor, the Board moved to come out of Executive Session and resumed the meeting at 8:00 pm in the alumni room. There were approximately 50 people in the audience.

Pledge of Allegiance

President Beyer led the audience in the pledge of allegiance.

Approval of Minutes

On motion of Trustee Pombar and seconded by Trustee Genovesi and all in favor, the minutes of February 1, 2007 were approved.

Report of the SGO Representative/Comments from the Public

Alex Romano, SGO representative, reported on activities and events around the high school. He also questioned the opening of school during the recent storm and noted that the walkways around the high school were left very icy.

John Hall, Director of Facilities, explained that more than 1,000 pounds of salt had been spread, that it was a difficult storm and he commended the staff for doing such a good job.

Jerry Romano, Sea Cliff, expressed his concern about an article that appeared on the front page of the Middle School newspaper, the Viking Voice, in regard to contract negotiations with the paraprofessional group in the district. Mr. Romano felt this had no place in the school newspaper and would like to see this stopped.

Frank Meditz, Transportation Supervisor, explained that the morning of the storm the roads were passable and that no one was put in danger.

Report of the Superintendent

Dr. Melnick reported on the opening of school during the storm, he explained that on days when there is a question on safety, there is a conference call early in the morning with the quadrant of superintendents. On the morning of the storm, there was agreement that schools could be opened safely.

Dr. Melnick explained that that the budget currently stands at a 5.7% increase, and copies of the budget, with changes from the February 1 meeting, could be obtained from the District Clerk at Central Office.

Regular Business

Overview of the Arts

Terry Donovan, Director of Fine and Performing Arts gave an overview of the program and thanked the Board for making the Arts Department an important part of a North Shore education. She explained that students would be making presentations of the different facets of the Arts Department. The evening started with a presentation by the Elementary and High School String Players followed by vocal selections by the group Men Aloud, an 8^th grade and high school singing group lead by Michael Kerschner. Michael Kleba and Ryan O'Hara along with several high school students, presented an overview on the theatre program. The Independent Art Program was presented by seniors Serena Chang and Christopher Zepperi who showcased their work. Finally, the North Shore Jazz Combo, consisting of students Joe Pess, Paul Avalese, Tom Meiners and Max Ross performed a selection for the Board.

Dr. Melnick acknowledged Ms. Donovan and all of the Arts faculty who were in attendance, for their work and support of the students. Each of the Board members also thanked Ms. Donovan for the presentation and expressed their enjoyment in the student performances.

LIPA - PILOT Retroactive Funds

Dr. Melnick outlined options to utilize 6 million dollars which will be available to the District from the LIPA PILOT agreement. These options were discussed with the District's attorney, Jonathan Heidelberger and District Auditor Marianne VanDuyne. Dr. Melnick's recommendation is to reduce the tax levy by no more than 1.5 million dollars and to establish a repair reserve fund in an amount of 4.5 million or higher to be used for capital repairs over the years. Mr. Heidelberger was present at the meeting for questions from the Board.

The Board had a lengthy discussion about these and other possible options. Questions were raised about whether the repair reserve fund would need voter approval. Mr. Heidelberger explained that the Board has the authority to establish the reserve fund and voter approval is needed to fund the reserve. The question of using the entire 6 million dollars to reduce the tax levy was raised, however, Mr. Heidelberger did not recommend this as it would cause a very large spike in the tax levy in the ensuing year. A question was raised about the time frame that funds in such a reserve might need to be used. Mr. Heidelberger explained there is no required time frame or designation with this type of reserve fund. A question was raised about using some of the funds to pay off an outstanding bond. Mr. Heidelberger explained the District has no ability to pay down bonds early. Dr. Melnick went on to explain that by setting up the repair reserve fund, many of the projects identified in the five year plan could be accelerated and done at today's prices resulting in savings in future budgets. There was consensus on the Board that Dr. Melnick put together a resolution for approval at the next Board meeting on March 1, 2007.

The Board also discussed the $700,000 grant due from LIPA; these funds are separate from the PILOT payment. Dr. Melnick explained that the District is getting fairly wide discretion to use this grant as long as it is used for some type of energy savings measure. He went on to say that LIPA would request documentation of how the money is spent. Some possible considerations for the grant is the cost of the MS boiler replacement or window replacement.

Budget Review

The Board discussed the budget lines for Central Services/Facilities & Operations Commercial Insurance/BOCES Administrative Costs, Occupational/Community Education, Transportation, and Community Services.

Dr. Melnick recommended removing 1 large replacement bus and 1 SUV 4x4 for a total of $120,530 from the transportation budget. Questions raised on the transportation budget were the increased cost for field trips; the amount for contract transportation; the St. Christopher portion of transportation, if offset by revenue where is it reflected; and the amount for a full time mechanic, this will be offset in decrease for contract transportation.

Dr. Melnick explained that the Central Services budget was reduced several times before the budget was presented to the Board and he commended John Hall for his diligence. He recommended the removal of 6 of the 13 roof fans to be replaced for a total of $37,500. Questions raised on the central services portion of the budget were on custodial overtime; district wide security costs; the cost of replacement mats; custodial supplies; grounds maintenance; electricity and heating costs; cost for training on the new phone system; and special projects.

There was a discussion in regard to information sent to the public about the budget. Trustee Pombar expressed his view that the focus should be on the tax levy and not on the increase in the budget. Dr. Melnick explained that this information is on the budget report card where the year to year budget increase and the projected revenue is reported as well as the projected tax rate.

The Board concluded the budget discussion and the total amount eliminated during the meeting was $158,039.

Comments from the Public

Bill Cameron, Glenwood Landing, suggested when informing the public about the budget to keep it simple and use the dollar amount that it will cost not the percentage.

Mary Ellen Scala, Glen Head, is a high school teacher in Garden City, she was very impressed with the Arts presentation she also expressed her desire to keep class size down. She then asked about moving her children's bus stop up the hill. She said it is a dangerous situation, no side walks for children to walk on. She has spoken to Ms. Buatsi about this and would like her to come and see the site personally. Ms. Buatsi explained there are certain guidelines that must be followed in determining the stops and we are within State guidelines. Dr. Melnick asked that this be reevaluated and Ms. Buatsi agreed to do so.

Conference and Committee Reports

Trustee Pombar reported on the BOCES Budget Advisory committee. He explained that the per person cost for BOCES is approximately $80,000-$140,000 per person. He is not recommending that the Board approve the BOCES budget. Trustee Beyer responded that just as our residents may not understand all that goes into our budget, we need to fully understand the components of the BOCES budget prior to making a decision.

Trustee Glassman reported on the Health/Physical Education/Nutrition - Tri State Committee. The committee has developed essential questions for the Tri State visit.

On motion of Trustee Genovesi and seconded by Trustee Glassman and all in favor it was:

Personnel

Increment for Advanced Study - Certified

Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Daniel Chemnitz, Elementary, from

Step 3 of the BA+30 salary schedule, to Step 3 of the MA salary schedule, effective

January 26, 2007

Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Jennifer DeSimone, Elementary,

from Step 13 of the MA+30 salary schedule, to Step 13 of the MA+45 salary schedule, effective

January 26, 2007

Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Elaine Goldman, Social Worker,

from Step 20 of the MA+15 salary schedule, to Step 20 of the MA+30 salary schedule, effective

January 26, 2007

Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Elizabeth Goodstone, Elementary,

from Step 12 of the MA+45 salary schedule, to Step 12 of the MA+60 salary schedule, effective

January 26, 2007

Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Jennifer Oleksiak, Elementary, from

Step 3 of the MA+30 salary schedule, to Step 3 of the MA+45 salary schedule, effective

January 26, 2007

Appointment of School Monitor

Resolved: To approve the appointment of Marianne Trubish, School Monitor at the Middle

School effective February 12, 2007, replacing J. Graziose

(terminated)

Approval of Additions to the Per Diem Substitute List

Resolved: To approve the following additions to the per diem substitute list:

Beth Echausse Elementary

Bernice Kaplan Elementary

Victoria Leif Teacher Aide

Michelle Mazza Elementary

Peggy Ruzek Teacher Aide

Sari Siltanen Secondary

Stefanie Soteriou Elementary

Deborah Vena Elementary

Judith Weigold Teacher Aide

Approval of Extra Curricular Activities Club Advisor

Resolved: To approve the following as an extra curricular activity Club Advisor:

Jethro Cardona Middle School Ski Club

Acceptance of Donation from the Viking Foundation

Resolved: To accept a donation from the Viking Foundation in the amount of $15,000 as follows:

$10,000 for Using SmartBoards to Enhance and Support ILC Program in Grades 2/3 and 4/5 and Vernier Probware Equipment for High School Science Classes

$5,000 to Support the Repair/Upgrade of the Project Adventure Equipment at the Middle School

Approval To Dispose Of Obsolete Equipment

Resolved: To declare as obsolete and approve the disposal of the inventory listed on the attached tab

Approval of Contract with Dunn Engineering for a District Wide Traffic Study

Resolved: To approve a contract with Dunn Engineering for a district wide traffic study for an estimated cost of $28,000

Award of Transportation Contract

Resolved: To award a transportation contract to Acme Bus Co. to transport 1 resident child to St.

Bernard's School in the amount of $4,495, effective February 6, 2007 through June 30, 2007

Approval of Budget Transfer

Resolved: To approve a budget transfer in the amount of $17,457.50

Approval of Parent Member Additions to CSE/CPSE

Resolved: To approve the addition of Kimberley Gaynor and Ann Marie Leone as a parent

member to CSE/CPSE

Approval of Special Education Consultants/Service Providers

Resolved: To approve an agreement with Education, Inc home and hospital tutoring services for the 2006-07 school year

Approval of Special Education Services

Resolved: To approve special education services (IEP) per attached tab

Approval of Resolution for Board President to Execute an Agreement

Resolved: That the President of the Board of Education is hereby authorized to executive an agreement with a member of the certified staff, which agreement was reviewed by the Board in Executive Session.

Approval of Resolution for Termination of an Employee pursuant to Civil Service Law

Resolved: To approve a resolution for termination of an employee pursuant to civil service law Section 71.

Comments from the Public

There was no public present at this part of the meeting.

Old Business

Trustee Webb expressed his desire to have a Board discussion in regard to the District Initiatives. There was concensus on the Board to add this as a discussion item on a future agenda.

New Business

Trustee Webb asked that there be a discussion about the structure of what goes into salary increments.

Dr. Melnick responded he thought it would be a good discussion as we enter into collective bargaining.

Trustee Beyer asked if the time out policy will be on the next agenda because we do not have a policy. Dr. Menick responded that Warren Richmond will be at the next meeting and there will be a draft of the policy.

Ms. Buatsi is recommending the addition of a full time custodial substitute to be used as a floater when someone is out sick. This would require the Board to create a new position. The Board asked if this has been tried in other districts. It was suggested to email Ms. Buatsi with questions so she can answer them at the next meeting.

Adjournment

At 11:05 pm on motion of Trustee Pombar and seconded by Trustee Glassman and all in favor, the meeting was adjourned.

Elizabeth Ciampi

District Clerk



zone1		North Shore Schools Board of Education Minutes February 15, 2007 The meeting was called to order by President Beyer at 7:00 pm in the High School Alumni Room. Present were Trustees Genovesi, Glassman, Murphy, Pombar and Webb. Trustee Vollmer was absent. Also present were Dr. Melnick, Mr. Chlebicki and Ms. Buatsi. Executive Session At 7:00 pm, on motion of Trustee Beyer seconded by Trustee Murphy and all in favor, the Board went into Executive Session in the high school faculty room to consider discussions regarding proposed, pending or current litigation, the employment history of a particular person, matters leading to the employment of a particular person, and matters leading to the discipline of a particular person. At 8:00 pm, on motion of Trustee Glassman and seconded by Trustee Webb, and all in favor, the Board moved to come out of Executive Session and resumed the meeting at 8:00 pm in the alumni room. There were approximately 50 people in the audience. Pledge of Allegiance President Beyer led the audience in the pledge of allegiance. Approval of Minutes On motion of Trustee Pombar and seconded by Trustee Genovesi and all in favor, the minutes of February 1, 2007 were approved. Report of the SGO Representative/Comments from the Public Alex Romano, SGO representative, reported on activities and events around the high school. He also questioned the opening of school during the recent storm and noted that the walkways around the high school were left very icy. John Hall, Director of Facilities, explained that more than 1,000 pounds of salt had been spread, that it was a difficult storm and he commended the staff for doing such a good job. Jerry Romano, Sea Cliff, expressed his concern about an article that appeared on the front page of the Middle School newspaper, the Viking Voice, in regard to contract negotiations with the paraprofessional group in the district. Mr. Romano felt this had no place in the school newspaper and would like to see this stopped. Frank Meditz, Transportation Supervisor, explained that the morning of the storm the roads were passable and that no one was put in danger. Report of the Superintendent Dr. Melnick reported on the opening of school during the storm, he explained that on days when there is a question on safety, there is a conference call early in the morning with the quadrant of superintendents. On the morning of the storm, there was agreement that schools could be opened safely. Dr. Melnick explained that that the budget currently stands at a 5.7% increase, and copies of the budget, with changes from the February 1 meeting, could be obtained from the District Clerk at Central Office. Regular Business Overview of the Arts Terry Donovan, Director of Fine and Performing Arts gave an overview of the program and thanked the Board for making the Arts Department an important part of a North Shore education. She explained that students would be making presentations of the different facets of the Arts Department. The evening started with a presentation by the Elementary and High School String Players followed by vocal selections by the group Men Aloud, an 8^th grade and high school singing group lead by Michael Kerschner. Michael Kleba and Ryan O'Hara along with several high school students, presented an overview on the theatre program. The Independent Art Program was presented by seniors Serena Chang and Christopher Zepperi who showcased their work. Finally, the North Shore Jazz Combo, consisting of students Joe Pess, Paul Avalese, Tom Meiners and Max Ross performed a selection for the Board. Dr. Melnick acknowledged Ms. Donovan and all of the Arts faculty who were in attendance, for their work and support of the students. Each of the Board members also thanked Ms. Donovan for the presentation and expressed their enjoyment in the student performances. LIPA - PILOT Retroactive Funds Dr. Melnick outlined options to utilize 6 million dollars which will be available to the District from the LIPA PILOT agreement. These options were discussed with the District's attorney, Jonathan Heidelberger and District Auditor Marianne VanDuyne. Dr. Melnick's recommendation is to reduce the tax levy by no more than 1.5 million dollars and to establish a repair reserve fund in an amount of 4.5 million or higher to be used for capital repairs over the years. Mr. Heidelberger was present at the meeting for questions from the Board. The Board had a lengthy discussion about these and other possible options. Questions were raised about whether the repair reserve fund would need voter approval. Mr. Heidelberger explained that the Board has the authority to establish the reserve fund and voter approval is needed to fund the reserve. The question of using the entire 6 million dollars to reduce the tax levy was raised, however, Mr. Heidelberger did not recommend this as it would cause a very large spike in the tax levy in the ensuing year. A question was raised about the time frame that funds in such a reserve might need to be used. Mr. Heidelberger explained there is no required time frame or designation with this type of reserve fund. A question was raised about using some of the funds to pay off an outstanding bond. Mr. Heidelberger explained the District has no ability to pay down bonds early. Dr. Melnick went on to explain that by setting up the repair reserve fund, many of the projects identified in the five year plan could be accelerated and done at today's prices resulting in savings in future budgets. There was consensus on the Board that Dr. Melnick put together a resolution for approval at the next Board meeting on March 1, 2007. The Board also discussed the $700,000 grant due from LIPA; these funds are separate from the PILOT payment. Dr. Melnick explained that the District is getting fairly wide discretion to use this grant as long as it is used for some type of energy savings measure. He went on to say that LIPA would request documentation of how the money is spent. Some possible considerations for the grant is the cost of the MS boiler replacement or window replacement. Budget Review The Board discussed the budget lines for Central Services/Facilities & Operations Commercial Insurance/BOCES Administrative Costs, Occupational/Community Education, Transportation, and Community Services. Dr. Melnick recommended removing 1 large replacement bus and 1 SUV 4x4 for a total of $120,530 from the transportation budget. Questions raised on the transportation budget were the increased cost for field trips; the amount for contract transportation; the St. Christopher portion of transportation, if offset by revenue where is it reflected; and the amount for a full time mechanic, this will be offset in decrease for contract transportation. Dr. Melnick explained that the Central Services budget was reduced several times before the budget was presented to the Board and he commended John Hall for his diligence. He recommended the removal of 6 of the 13 roof fans to be replaced for a total of $37,500. Questions raised on the central services portion of the budget were on custodial overtime; district wide security costs; the cost of replacement mats; custodial supplies; grounds maintenance; electricity and heating costs; cost for training on the new phone system; and special projects. There was a discussion in regard to information sent to the public about the budget. Trustee Pombar expressed his view that the focus should be on the tax levy and not on the increase in the budget. Dr. Melnick explained that this information is on the budget report card where the year to year budget increase and the projected revenue is reported as well as the projected tax rate. The Board concluded the budget discussion and the total amount eliminated during the meeting was $158,039. Comments from the Public Bill Cameron, Glenwood Landing, suggested when informing the public about the budget to keep it simple and use the dollar amount that it will cost not the percentage. Mary Ellen Scala, Glen Head, is a high school teacher in Garden City, she was very impressed with the Arts presentation she also expressed her desire to keep class size down. She then asked about moving her children's bus stop up the hill. She said it is a dangerous situation, no side walks for children to walk on. She has spoken to Ms. Buatsi about this and would like her to come and see the site personally. Ms. Buatsi explained there are certain guidelines that must be followed in determining the stops and we are within State guidelines. Dr. Melnick asked that this be reevaluated and Ms. Buatsi agreed to do so. Conference and Committee Reports Trustee Pombar reported on the BOCES Budget Advisory committee. He explained that the per person cost for BOCES is approximately $80,000-$140,000 per person. He is not recommending that the Board approve the BOCES budget. Trustee Beyer responded that just as our residents may not understand all that goes into our budget, we need to fully understand the components of the BOCES budget prior to making a decision. Trustee Glassman reported on the Health/Physical Education/Nutrition - Tri State Committee. The committee has developed essential questions for the Tri State visit. On motion of Trustee Genovesi and seconded by Trustee Glassman and all in favor it was: Personnel Increment for Advanced Study - Certified Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Daniel Chemnitz, Elementary, from Step 3 of the BA+30 salary schedule, to Step 3 of the MA salary schedule, effective January 26, 2007 Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Jennifer DeSimone, Elementary, from Step 13 of the MA+30 salary schedule, to Step 13 of the MA+45 salary schedule, effective January 26, 2007 Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Elaine Goldman, Social Worker, from Step 20 of the MA+15 salary schedule, to Step 20 of the MA+30 salary schedule, effective January 26, 2007 Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Elizabeth Goodstone, Elementary, from Step 12 of the MA+45 salary schedule, to Step 12 of the MA+60 salary schedule, effective January 26, 2007 Resolved: To approve an increment for advanced study for Jennifer Oleksiak, Elementary, from Step 3 of the MA+30 salary schedule, to Step 3 of the MA+45 salary schedule, effective January 26, 2007 Appointment of School Monitor Resolved: To approve the appointment of Marianne Trubish, School Monitor at the Middle School effective February 12, 2007, replacing J. Graziose (terminated) Approval of Additions to the Per Diem Substitute List Resolved: To approve the following additions to the per diem substitute list: Beth Echausse Elementary Bernice Kaplan Elementary Victoria Leif Teacher Aide Michelle Mazza Elementary Peggy Ruzek Teacher Aide Sari Siltanen Secondary Stefanie Soteriou Elementary Deborah Vena Elementary Judith Weigold Teacher Aide Approval of Extra Curricular Activities Club Advisor Resolved: To approve the following as an extra curricular activity Club Advisor: Jethro Cardona Middle School Ski Club Acceptance of Donation from the Viking Foundation Resolved: To accept a donation from the Viking Foundation in the amount of $15,000 as follows: $10,000 for Using SmartBoards to Enhance and Support ILC Program in Grades 2/3 and 4/5 and Vernier Probware Equipment for High School Science Classes $5,000 to Support the Repair/Upgrade of the Project Adventure Equipment at the Middle School Approval To Dispose Of Obsolete Equipment Resolved: To declare as obsolete and approve the disposal of the inventory listed on the attached tab Approval of Contract with Dunn Engineering for a District Wide Traffic Study Resolved: To approve a contract with Dunn Engineering for a district wide traffic study for an estimated cost of $28,000 Award of Transportation Contract Resolved: To award a transportation contract to Acme Bus Co. to transport 1 resident child to St. Bernard's School in the amount of $4,495, effective February 6, 2007 through June 30, 2007 Approval of Budget Transfer Resolved: To approve a budget transfer in the amount of $17,457.50 Approval of Parent Member Additions to CSE/CPSE Resolved: To approve the addition of Kimberley Gaynor and Ann Marie Leone as a parent member to CSE/CPSE Approval of Special Education Consultants/Service Providers Resolved: To approve an agreement with Education, Inc home and hospital tutoring services for the 2006-07 school year Approval of Special Education Services Resolved: To approve special education services (IEP) per attached tab Approval of Resolution for Board President to Execute an Agreement Resolved: That the President of the Board of Education is hereby authorized to executive an agreement with a member of the certified staff, which agreement was reviewed by the Board in Executive Session. Approval of Resolution for Termination of an Employee pursuant to Civil Service Law Resolved: To approve a resolution for termination of an employee pursuant to civil service law Section 71. Comments from the Public There was no public present at this part of the meeting. Old Business Trustee Webb expressed his desire to have a Board discussion in regard to the District Initiatives. There was concensus on the Board to add this as a discussion item on a future agenda. New Business Trustee Webb asked that there be a discussion about the structure of what goes into salary increments. Dr. Melnick responded he thought it would be a good discussion as we enter into collective bargaining. Trustee Beyer asked if the time out policy will be on the next agenda because we do not have a policy. Dr. Menick responded that Warren Richmond will be at the next meeting and there will be a draft of the policy. Ms. Buatsi is recommending the addition of a full time custodial substitute to be used as a floater when someone is out sick. This would require the Board to create a new position. The Board asked if this has been tried in other districts. It was suggested to email Ms. Buatsi with questions so she can answer them at the next meeting. Adjournment At 11:05 pm on motion of Trustee Pombar and seconded by Trustee Glassman and all in favor, the meeting was adjourned. Elizabeth Ciampi District Clerk